When preparing for your travels, you encounter various obstacles. What to include in your luggage? Which airlines provide the top flights? How to plan your itinerary upon arrival? These inquiries can be addressed by specialized apps that assist with addressing almost any query that arises before your journey.
Duolingo
If you plan your travels in advance, you have weeks or months to learn at least the most important phrases. Duolingo provides a fun language learning experience for free, supporting numerous languages if you are proficient in English. It may lack theory but offers the most essential phrases and sentences you might need while exploring the streets, dining at restaurants, or navigating city streets.
PackPoint
Wondering what to pack in your bags? PackPoint has you covered. It not only suggests items based on what you've already packed (for example, if you pack a laptop, it recommends a charger, or if there's a toothbrush, it reminds you about toothpaste), but also considers the weather, dates, your plans, and automatically generates lists of items to pack – which you can customize, of course.
Trello
Another app for the planning enthusiast. If you organize your trips ahead of time, pack your bags weeks in advance, and jot down all important phone numbers and addresses just in case, Trello allows you to map out your routes and agendas, and anticipate unexpected situations. The basic version is free, but upgrading to the premium version can save you more than it costs.
SkyScanner
Flight deals often serve as the main motivation for embarking on trips, or at least for selecting the travel dates. SkyScanner is a search aggregator that scans through hundreds of airline websites to find the most affordable flights from your origin to your destination. Additionally, on SkyScanner, you can make hotel reservations, book rental cars, choose the most eco-friendly flight, or seek travel inspiration.
Hopper
For those who prefer all-in-one apps, Hopper might be the right choice. With Hopper, you can search for flights, accommodation, car rentals, and more. The standout feature of Hopper is its ability to not only track but also predict potential deals. It also recommends alternative travel dates if cheaper tickets are available or foresees a drop in hotel prices. Additionally, it provides personalized suggestions for an added touch!
Vrbo
While Airbnb and Booking are well-known, Vrbo offers a great alternative for longer stays. Vrbo does not cater to shared accommodations, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travelers. However, if you seek a comfortable place to stay, this app is worth considering.
Hostelworld
On the flip side, Hostelworld is a budget-friendly app designed for booking hostels or apartments worldwide. It features its own payment gateway and reservation system that allows for cancellations and refunds. With a map, various filters, and even a search function for free activities, Hostelworld is the perfect choice for those seeking an affordable and adventure-filled backpacking weekend.
TripIt
Yet another comprehensive app to assist in trip planning. Easily add your flights, train journeys, hotel reservations, or any scheduled activities by forwarding them via email to TripIt. One of its key features is the capability to process documents and emails to extract essential details, including adapting to the current COVID-19 travel guidelines.
Google Maps
Google Maps may already be on your Android device, but its utility extends beyond navigation or exploring nearby areas. Download offline maps, discover points of interest, learn about local businesses ranging from restaurants to car rentals, and share your reviews. Seamlessly integrated with Android, Google Maps is the go-to map application that I highly recommend sticking with.
Google Translate
While Duolingo is excellent, it may not cover all the vocabulary and expressions you require. Google Translate, equipped with a camera feature, now allows for translation of typed or spoken text across multiple languages. Furthermore, it aids in recognizing and translating text captured by your camera, whether it's a signboard, newspaper, or any other text. A notable feature is the ability to download language packs for offline translation use.
Travel Smart!
Undoubtedly, there are more beneficial apps beyond these ten. I have suggested some alternatives where applicable. If you desire additional essential travel apps, feel free to share their names in the comments. Your input is greatly appreciated.
